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Descended from the Norse kings of Man
and the North Isles, the clan of MacLeod comprised two main branches, the
MacLeods of Skye and the MacLeods of Lewis. The MacLeods of Skye
established the seat at Dunvegan, which remains the chief's seat to this day.
The fascinating
origins of the clan can be traced to Leod, who was born
about 1200, the son of Olave the Black, King of Man and the
Isles. Leod married the daughter and heiress of MacRaild
about the year 1220. Through his son, Tormod, came the
MacLeods of Harris, Dunvegan and Glenelg, and through his
second son, Torquil, came the MacLeods of Lewis.
Throughout the centuries MacLeods have
been known for their devotion to their chief, the tenacity with which they have
maintained the ancient Dunvegan castle, their appreciation of music and Gaelic
lore, their outstanding record in the professions, and their loyalty to one
another.
Few families are as
fortunate as the MacLeods in having, generation after
generation, chiefs who take pride in being MacLeods. From
Leod to the present, the Clan has enjoyed strong leadership,
and the tradition continues.
In modern times the energy and
intelligence of Dame Flora MacLeod of MacLeod, who laid much of the foundation
for the system of MacLeod Societies we now share, place MacLeods everywhere
forever in her debt. The memory of her wonderful enthusiasm binds us all
together to this day. Her grandson John, who succeeded at Dame Flora's death in
1976, brings to the Chiefship an interest in music and in the renovation of the
Castle. His son Hugh Magnus ensures continuity in the line of Chiefs of MacLeods. 
Recognized as MacLeod of the Lewes by
Warrant of the Lord Lyon King of Arms in 1988, Roderick restored leadership to
the family of Torquil, which had been without a Chief for many years. Leadership
of the Lewes passed on to Torquil's son Torquil Donald MacLeod in March, 2001.
Together with John, the MacLeod Chiefs once again present a united front with
much pride in both Chiefs and Clan.
Originally a rock fortress founded
about eight and a half centuries ago, Dunvegan Castle on the Isle of Skye in
Invernesshire, Scotland, has grown and changed over the years until today it is
a beautiful and historic castle - the oldest continuously inhabited stronghold
in the British Isles, the home of the Chief and the symbolic clan home to
MacLeods around the world. Among its many treasures are the Fairy Flag, the
Dunvegan Cup, Rory Mor's Drinking Horn, art works, as well as its magnificent
views of Loch Dunvegan and the landscaped grounds.
Dunvegan is steeped in history.
Providing you, the visitor, with a glimpse into our rich inheritance through the
full spectrum of great Clan Battles; legends; tragedies; murders most foul and
great loves and romances.
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Interesting
Fact |
Malcolm
the third Chief (1296-1370),
while returning from a clandestine visit to
the wife of Frasier of Glenelg, was
confronted by a mad bull in Glenelg. Armed
only with a dirk,
he slew the beast. As a souvenir of his
prowess, he retained one of the Bull's Horns.
This horn is on display in the Castle today.
It is a great Clan treasure; indeed to this
day each male heir has to prove his manhood
by successfully draining this Horn filled
with claret. |
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